INI CET 2025: Latest Exam Pattern & Subject-Wise Marks Distribution
The Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI CET) is a highly competitive postgraduate medical entrance examination conducted by AIIMS, New Delhi.
It serves as the gateway to MD/MS/DM (6 years), MCh (6 years)/ MDS courses in top-tier institutes like AIIMS, PGIMER, JIPMER, NIMHANS and others.
To crack INI CET 2025, aspirants must begin by understanding the latest exam pattern and subject-wise marks distribution thoroughly. A smart preparation strategy aligned with this understanding gives you the edge you need in a paper designed to test application-based and integrated knowledge.
This blog presents everything you need to know about the INI CET 2025 pattern, its latest updates, topic-wise weightage and marks distribution, all curated from authentic sources like DigiNerve and recent exam trends.
Why is Understanding the Exam Pattern Important?
Before diving into books and MCQs, it is important to understand how the exam works. The pattern governs how you prepare, revise and practice. Misalignment with the exam blueprint is one of the top reasons candidates underperform despite the hard work
INI CET 2025- At a Glance
|
Feature |
Details |
| Exam Name | INI CET 2025 |
| Exam Conducting Body | AIIMS, New Delhi |
| Exam Type | Postgraduate Medical Entrance |
| Course Offered | MD, MS, DM (6 yr), MCh (6 yr), MDS |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Total Questions | 200 MCQs |
| Language | English |
| Question Format | Single Best Answer + Multiple Correct Answers |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for correct, −⅓ for incorrect |
| Unattempted Questions | 0 marks |
INI CET 2025: Latest Subject-Wise Marks Distribution
Based on a recent analysis of INI CET papers, reliable trends in subject weightage have been identified. This approximation can help you prioritise revision:
Pre-clinical Subjects
| Subject | Expected Questions | Focus Areas |
| Anatomy | 10–15 | Neuroanatomy, Embryology, Diaphragm, Brachial Plexus |
| Physiology | 10–15 | CVS, Renal, Neuro, Acid-Base Balance |
| Biochemistry | 10–15 | Enzymes, Metabolism, Vitamins, Heme Pathway |
Para-Clinical Subjects
| Subject | Expected Questions | Focus Areas |
| Pathology | 15–20 | Neoplasia, Cell Injury, Haematology |
| Pharmacology | 15–20 | DOCs, ADRs, Autonomic + CNS drugs |
| Microbiology | 15–20 | Virology, Immunology, Bacteriology |
| Forensic Medicine | 5–10 | IPC sections, Injuries, Identification |
| PSM (Community Medicine) | 15–20 | Screening tests, Biostats, NHPs, Epidemiology |
Clinical Subjects
| Subject | Expected Questions | Focus Areas |
| General Medicine | 20–25 | CNS, CVS, Infectious Diseases, Rheumatology |
| General Surgery | 20–25 | Breast, Thyroid, Hernia, Trauma, GI |
| OBGYN | 15–20 | Obstetric emergencies, Labour, Gynec cancers, Contraception |
| Pediatrics | 5–10 | Growth milestones, IMNCI, Respiratory diseases |
| Orthopedics | 5–10 | Bone tumours, Fractures, Pediatric ortho |
| Radiology | 5–10 | Signs, X-rays, Contrast agents |
| Dermatology | 5–10 | Psoriasis, STDs, Leprosy |
| ENT | 5–10 | Audiometry, Vertigo, CSOM |
| Ophthalmology | 5–10 | Cataract, Glaucoma, Vision defects |
| Anesthesia | 5–10 | CPR, Airway, IV drugs, Monitoring |
| Psychiatry | 5–10 | Mood disorders, Sleep, Substance abuse |
Trending Question Formats in INI CET 2025
INI CET has evolved into an exam that prioritises clinical application over rote learning. Here’s what you can expect:
- Image-Based Questions (X-rays, Dermatology, Lesions, Instruments)
- Integrated MCQs combining topics across 2-3 subjects
- Case-Based clinical scenarios with 3-5 linked questions
- Graphs, ECGs, Flowcharts, especially in PSM, Physiology and Medicine
- Assertion-Reason Type or Multiple Correct MCQs
Preparation Strategy Based on Pattern & Marks Distribution
To crack INI CET 2025 with a competitive rank, align your study approach with the subject weightage and question style:
- Style with Clinical Majors: Spend 40%-50% of your time on Medicine, Surgery, OBGYN, and OSM; these account for nearly 50-60 questions alone.
- Mix Short+ Long Subjects Daily: Pair a long subject (e.g. Pathology) with a short one (e.g. Anaesthesia) to avoid fatigue and boost retention.
- Prioritise Visual Memory: Practice from image-based question banks, flashcards and visuals. You can get 30-40 image-based MCQs in INI CET.
- Solve PYQs & Simulated Mocks: INI CET often repeat concepts, if not questions. Solve past 3-4 years papers and give weekly full-length mocks under real exam settings.
- Revise High-Yield Tables: Certain tables from pharmacology, pathology, and surgery carry recall value in MCQs; review these regularly.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Ignoring short subjects like Psychiatry, FMT, and ENT, these are easy to score.
- Studying only theory without MCQ practice.
- Not stimulating exam pressure with full mocks.
- Underestimating image-based learning.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. Will INI CET 2025 include NEET PG-style clinical vignettes?
Ans – Yes.INI CET is even more concept-based and application-heavy than NEET PG. Expect layered clinical scenarios.
Q2. Are all subjects equally important?
Ans – No. Focus on high-weightage subjects like Medicine, Surgery, OBGYN and Pathology, but do not ignore low-weight subjects which contribute 15-20% of your total score.
Q3. How many questions should I aim to attempt safely?
Ans – Attempt at least 180-185 questions with 90% accuracy, considering the -⅓ negative marking
